Auto Choke System

Available as an option on GCV and GSV models

Honda’s Auto Choke System is available for use on GCV160 and GCV190 engines in fixed-throttle lawnmower applications. This user-friendly system is truly automatic, eliminating levers and cables.

The engine starts easily whether cold or hot and is ready to use immediately.

Once the engine is up and running, the Auto Choke automatically returns to an optimal operating position.

Automatic Mechanical Decompression System

All engines

Honda’s automatic mechanical decompression system is designed to give you quicker, easier starts.

This system, which is connected to the camshaft, reduces compression by opening the exhaust valve slightly when the engine is being started.  This reduces the amount of force needed to start the engine and improves starting performance.

The system disengages automatically after the engine starts to prevent any power loss during normal operation.

Belt-driven OHC design

Mini 4-Stroke Series

In addition to the milder operating noise of 4-Stroke engines in general, the Mini 4-Stroke’s belt-driven OHC design further reduces unpleasant mechanical noise.   Its lighter piston and other moving parts help keep vibration to a comfortable level.

Compact combustion chamber, overhead cam design, and uniblock construction

GC series, GS series

A truly innovative combination of a compact combustion chamber, overhead cam configuration and uniblock construction significantly reduces fuel and oil consumption as compared to conventional side-valve engines.

Honda’s simple design has made the GC and GS Series lighter and more compact than any engine in their class. Plus, simple construction has minimized the number of parts, making the engine more reliable and easier to operate.

Electronic Governor

iGX Series

The electronic governor minimizes governor droop.  This increases available power.

For most normal engines, available power is decreased when the engine is approaching wide open throttle.

The iGX’s advanced electronic governor eliminates this by electronically controlling the throttle to achieve a higher effective power output.

Full 360° "any-side-up" operation

Mini 4-Stroke Series

The innovative design of Honda’s Mini 4-Stroke engines allows them to be used and stored in any position for full 360° usability. Upright, sideways, even upside down – the Mini 4-Strokes will still run great.

An exclusive Honda rotary-slinger lubrication system keeps oil in a completely misted state and circulates it using pressure fluctuations generated by the movement of the piston.

Built-in passages effectively return the circulated oil to the oil reservoir from every part of the engine.  An oil return port positioned in the center of the reservoir prevents oil from accidentally flowing into the combustion chamber.

Approximately half the operating cost of comparable 2-stroke engines

Mini 4-Stroke Series

Efficient 4-Stroke technology not only offers superior fuel economy, it also requires no mixing of oil in the engine’s fuel supply.  This substantially reduces both oil consumption and the emission of unburned oil in the exhaust.

The results include better all-around environmental performance and operating costs that actually decrease the more the engine is used!

Hemispherical Combustion Chamber

V-twin Series

Honda’s hemispherical combustion chamber was inspired by our proven racing technology.  It offers the highest V-Twin compression ratio on the market.

The power is transmitted through forged-steel connecting rods and a forged-steel crankshaft, supported by a full-pressure lubrication system.

• 9.3:1 compression ratio generates tremendous power.
• Excellent combustion efficiency.
• Allows a radial configuration to create high volumetric efficiency.
• Places the spark plug near the center of the chamber for optimal flame travel.

This means increased engine efficiency and more power to your application.

High Capacity Oil Pump

V-Twin Series

The lubrication system uses a high capacity pump with discrete chambers.  This facilitates consistent oil delivery.

The high output oil pump offers numerous benefits:

• Twice the capacity of the previous model
• Redesigned pump cover and sealing system ensure engine reliability
• Full pressure lubrication to the flywheel, PTO, and connecting-rod bearings

The result?

• Reduced friction
• Extended engine life
• Less mechanical engine noise

Integrated Cylinder and Head

V-twin Series

The idea of integrating the cylinder & head into one unit is radical. Radically smart. It eliminates the head gasket, head bolts, and allows for more airflow and better cooling.

Speaking of cooling, improved cooling means better combustion management. Cooling is also improved by each of the lightweight aluminum pushrods being housed in a separate tube to achieve enhanced airflow.

When you put it all together (with fewer parts) you get an engine with reduced emissions and greater-than-ever durability.

Integrated ECU (electronic control unit) with a self-tuning regulator (STR) governor system

iGX Series

Honda iGX engines feature an integrated ECU (electronic control unit) with a self-tuning regulator (STR) governor system.

The innovative ECU monitors and controls engine functions including Throttle, Choke, Ignition Timing, and Oil Alert.  On some models, it also offers programmable governor and throttle modes for unprecedented flexibility.  A diagnostic LED helps with trouble shooting.  Stepper motors precisely control throttle and choke position.

This allows the engine to communicate with the machine it is powering.

• Operation is automated
• Control becomes surer, faster and easier.
• Enables drive-by-wire remote control operation of the engine, regulating functions such as starting, throttle, ignition timing and diagnostics.
• Engine speed can be programmed and varied based on the equipment application's load and speed requirement.
• Easier for inexperienced users to operate
• Easily maintained - Ideal for rental applications

Lifetime Timing Belt Design

GC series, GS series

Honda’s GC and GS engines use the world’s first small engine internal timing belt, designed to last the lifetime of the engine.

Small engine timing belts are usually external and are subject to wear caused by dirt.  Honda’s internal timing belt runs in oil, eliminating the need for conventional drive gears. 

This design:

• Improves lubrication,
• Reduces the weight of the engine, and
• Provides quieter operation.

Oil Alert

GX series, V-twin series, iGX series

Honda’s Oil Alert system helps to prevent engine seizure due to a low oil condition.

The system consists of an oil level sensor inside the crankcase.  When the oil reaches a level that is too low for safe operation, the engine warns you or stops automatically. 

Variable Timing Digital CDI Ignition

GX240-390, V-Twin series, iGX series

Honda’s Variable Timing Digital CDI ignition allows optimal ignition timing based on engine speed. The result:

• Excellent starting,
• High power output,
• Reduced fuel consumption, and
• Outstanding emissions performance.

An engine rev limiter is also incorporated to prevent over-revving.